Kevin Durant stated that he still sees Kyrie Irving as part of the Nets' championship pursuit, but he also acknowledged that it would be difficult to replicate what he brings if he couldn't play at home in Brooklyn.
Irving was unable to attend practice in Brooklyn for the second consecutive day due to New York City's COVID-19 protocols that only allow players who have received at least one shot of vaccination to practice and play. Durant stated that the Nets are anxious to be a team, but that there is still uncertainty about Irving's status as a All-Star guard. Durant also said that Irving can practice and play at home with them.
When asked by reporters if Irving's talents are sufficient to cover them, the star forward said that he was envisioning Kyrie as a member of the team. Maybe I'm just nave but that's how I feel. But I believe everyone here has the confidence in themselves and in our group that we can accomplish something special if we continue building.
According to sources, the Nets are still unclear about Irving's plans to get vaccinated. They also said that they have not decided whether or not it will allow him to play as a part time player this season. Irving was expected to be vaccinated and comply with local regulations, which would allow him to play and practice in New York. Wojnarowski & Windhorst were told by sources that Irving is refusing to get vaccinated. The Nets are now preparing for the possibility of Irving being unable to play in New York for home practices and games.
Steve Nash, the Nets' head coach was asked about his optimism regarding the city's vaccination mandate. He also wanted to know if they were able to have everyone ready for the start of the season.
Nash stated to reporters, "I don’t know, and I can’t answer that." "As it stands now no. We'll wait and see what happens. "I don't want to speculate on anything that is currently in flux."
Durant stated that Irving was essential for the Nets' success this season. He also wanted to let his point guard know what Irving plans to do regarding getting at least one vaccine shot.
Durant stated that Durant is currently dealing with a personal issue. Durant said that while he is dealing, we will continue to work and focus on him here at the gym. He'll help them when they are ready.
Durant said, "It's going to be difficult to replicate what he brings." "But professional sports are all about the next man up mentality so it is important that guys step up and fulfill that role as best they can."
Irving practiced last week with the Nets in San Diego during their training camp. They are currently at home and will play Milwaukee on Friday. They will play at Philadelphia on Monday, before playing another home game against Minnesota.
The Nets will open their regular season at Milwaukee and Philadelphia. They will then be back home for six games during a homestand.
Durant stated, "I want him to be a part of the group." He's a special player. We want him to be a part this group. We cannot control everything and he will have to figure it out. This doesn't necessarily mean I won't say that I don’t want him to be on the team. While he's an integral part of our work, it's up to the guys to take his place and be themselves and move on.
Durant stated that he did not want to be involved in Irving's decision.
He said, "I'm really not trying to get too involved with it." It's much bigger than me and each of us individually. This is one man's decision about his health and wellbeing. I was able to observe the situation and make my own observations. Then, I could continue practicing every day and pushing myself hard.
Durant said that Irving was wrong to give him advice. This is his decision, it's his decision. We all respect it. I'm not comfortable talking to him about such things. I'm just there to help and come in here to do my job as a leader on the team. When things are figured out, I have trust in the process and hope it will be figured out.
